Finding the surface area of a cylinder is fun and not too hard! Let’s go through it step by step.

1. Identify Dimensions: First, you need to find two things: the radius ($r$) of the base and the height ($h$) of the cylinder.

2. Calculate the Base Area: Next, let’s figure out the area of one circular base. You can use this formula:
   $A = \pi r^2$
   This means you take the radius, square it (multiply it by itself), and then multiply by π (pi).

3. Calculate the Total Base Area: Since there are two bases (top and bottom), you multiply the area of one base by 2:
   $\text{Total Base Area} = 2A = 2\pi r^2$

4. Calculate the Lateral Surface Area: Now, we need to find the area around the sides of the cylinder. You can use this formula:
   $\text{Lateral Surface Area} = 2\pi rh$
   This means you multiply 2, π (pi), the radius, and the height together.

5. Total Surface Area: Finally, to find the total surface area of the cylinder, you add the areas together:
   $\text{Total Surface Area} = 2\pi r^2 + 2\pi rh$

And that’s it! Now you know how to find the surface area of a cylinder! Keep practicing! 🎉